Keith Hackett hits out over ‘reckless’ Beto incident in Newcastle vs Everton

Beto was fortunate to avoid a booking during Everton F.C.’s clash with Newcastle United F.C. on Saturday, according to former PGMOL chief Keith Hackett.

In the sixth minute at St James’ Park on 28 February, the Everton forward challenged Nick Pope, catching the Newcastle goalkeeper in the process. Referee Stuart Attwell decided against issuing a yellow card, deeming the foul sufficient punishment at the time.

Hackett has since weighed in on the incident, telling Goodison News that Beto’s tackle “was reckless and endangered the safety of the goalkeeper,” adding that it clearly warranted a yellow card. The challenge may also have unsettled Pope, who subsequently made a costly error that allowed Beto to put Everton ahead.
The match itself was eventful. Everton, aiming for European qualification and sitting ninth in the table, initially took the lead in the 19th minute when Jarrad Branthwaite headed home from a James Garner corner.

Newcastle responded in the 32nd minute through Jacob Ramsey, but Everton quickly regained the lead as Beto capitalized on Pope’s spilled save from Dwight McNeil’s shot.
The second half saw more drama, with Jacob Murphy equalizing late via a deflected effort.

However, Everton sealed the win when Thierno Barry scrambled the ball into the net, ensuring a crucial victory for David Moyes’ side.